Why Red States See High ICE Arrests but No Unrest
When you look at the map of ICE enforcement across the country, a distinct pattern emerges. States with Republican governors—like Texas, Florida, and Georgia—are putting up some of the highest arrest numbers in the nation. In the first ten months of 2025 alone, Texas saw over 54,000 arrests, and Florida recorded more than 23,000.
Given the sheer volume of enforcement activity, you might expect these states to be hotbeds of tension, protests, and public outcry. But the reality on the ground is starkly different. While headlines in other parts of the country often focus on clashes between activists and federal agents, Republican-led states have remained remarkably calm.
The question is: Why?
The answer lies in a fundamental difference in governance and community expectations. In these states, the absence of unrest isn’t an accident—it’s the direct result of a culture that prioritizes the rule of law and cooperation between local and federal authorities.
The Power of Cooperation
In many Democratic-led “sanctuary” jurisdictions, local law enforcement is often barred from communicating with ICE. This friction creates a chaotic environment in which federal agents are forced to operate in the shadows, often leading to high-profile, contentious operations that spark public outrage.
In contrast, Republican states generally embrace a philosophy of seamless cooperation. Sheriffs and local police departments work hand in hand with federal immigration officials. Because this partnership is established and transparent, enforcement actions are routine rather than disruptive. When local law enforcement treats federal immigration laws as valid and enforceable—rather than something to be resisted—it sets a tone of legitimacy that permeates the community.
A Community That Respects the Process
Perhaps the most significant factor is the residents’ attitude. In states like Texas, Tennessee, and South Carolina, there is a prevailing belief that law enforcement agencies should be allowed to perform their duties without interference.
You don’t see residents forming human chains to block ICE vans or local politicians encouraging non-compliance. Instead, there is a general understanding that maintaining public safety involves enforcing all laws, including those at the federal level. The lack of protests isn’t a sign of apathy; it is a sign of a citizenry that respects law enforcement’s operational authority.
Conclusion
The data from 2025 makes one thing clear: high enforcement numbers do not have to equal social instability. The stability seen in Republican-led states proves that when local leaders cooperate with federal partners and communities respect the rule of law, the system works as intended—efficiently, quietly, and without chaos.